Writing Chronicles- Week Thirteen

First reader

Photo Description: My first reader and I are standing with our arms outstretched oceanside in Bali. Rocks are beneath our feet and waves are behind us. We were not talking about books at this time.

Week Thirteen

I’m preparing to send my first two chapters out to my first reader.

It has taken a long time for me to become comfortable with critique of my writing. I’ve sat through countless writing classes in undergraduate and graduate school to learn how to wade through the feedback that is constructive and that which isn’t going to work for me. I know they say “feedback is a gift” but sometimes…I have to send it back.

I am thankful that I have a built-in first reader also known as my older sister. She is someone who knows my purpose and goals but is unafraid to give me unfiltered feedback. I don’t feel any discomfort in what she shares because I know it comes from wanting me to do my best. She read every chapter of my first book as I wrote them and her insights were invaluable and she will do them again for this book.

Last time after I got that first round of feedback, I would revise it and then send it to my editor as the second reader. That was harder to send but she was good at asking questions and seeking clarity to make my writing stronger. I have a new editor for this book who is well-versed in my content which is exciting to me.

I’m curious to hear what feedback I will receive.

Week thirteen. DONE.